My husband and I are planning a trip to New Orleans and would like some reccomendations for good places to eat and fun things to do while we are there. Any ideas?

Anne - my cousin and i just got home from NO 2 days ago and we had a blast. Food is awesome everywhere, we chose NOLAs as our favorite night out--it's trendy and delish and expensive but worth it -- you will not believe the service!!! There were three waiters assigned to our table of two people!!! We also tried Galatoire's one night -- if you are a seafood lover this is a must! It is one of the old famous restaurants in the Quarter....the A/C is on very high in there so bring a sweater - men should wear a coat. Last place not to miss for dinner is Pascale's Manale for BBQ Shrim in the Uptown/Garden district - absolutely to die for!!! The ambiance is nothig special b/c you and everyone else is wearing a bib!!! Email me with more questions - have a wonderful trip!!! Melanie

Anne - my cousin and i just got home from NO 2 days ago and we had a blast. Food is awesome everywhere, we chose NOLAs as our favorite night out--it's trendy and delish and expensive but worth it -- you will not believe the service!!! There were three waiters assigned to our table of two people!!! We also tried Galatoire's one night -- if you are a seafood lover this is a must! It is one of the old famous restaurants in the Quarter....the A/C is on very high in there so bring a sweater - men should wear a coat. Last place not to miss for dinner is Pascale's Manale for BBQ Shrim in the Uptown/Garden district - absolutely to die for!!! The ambiance is nothig special b/c you and everyone else is wearing a bib!!! Email me with more questions - have a wonderful trip!!! Melanie

Hi,
I enjoyed reading your restaurant recommendations.
A group of us plan a trip to New Orleans in October and I wondered if you could recommend a hotel. We want something above average & close to most attractions. Any recommendations? Thanks for any help.

Best regards, Marsha

we go to new orleans frequently and have stayed in several different hotels. our favorite, for atmosphere, location, and price is the dauphine orleans (but be sure to ask for a room across the street in the courtyard). secondly, i would recommend the monteleone, more expensive but complete with services you'd expect of a larger hotel. sometimes the omni has specials which make it a great find, a perfect location! whatever price range you are looking at definitely stay in the quarter. even out on canal street you will feel too far away.

I just took my wife and mother-in-law there for a long weekend. I have been there several times. Commanders Palace is a "can't miss" spot. The Sunday brunch is incredible... very pricey... but a once in a lifetime brunch. Need a jacket...maybe a tie. Also, K-Pauls restaurant. It's quaint, yet world famous. It sounds wierd, but the fried-oyster sandwich is wonderful.